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Delhi's Air Worst in December Since 2018
30 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Delhi's December average AQI reached 349, the worst since 2018.
- Farm fires contributed only 3.5% to PM2.5 pollution this December.
- The city experienced severe air quality on five days this month.
Delhi's air quality in December has plummeted to its worst levels since 2018, registering an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 349. This concerning trend emerged even as data indicates that stubble burning contributed a mere 3.5% to the city's PM2.5 pollution up to December 5.
The capital experienced 'severe' air quality on five separate days throughout December. While stubble burning's impact has decreased, Delhi-NCR remains among the nation's most polluted regions. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) notes a steady decline in stubble burning's contribution to PM2.5 levels over the years.
Official data reveals that Delhi's average AQI in December was 349 this year, significantly worse than previous years, except for December 2018 when it stood at 360. The CPCB's reliance on a 2018 source apportionment study for PM2.5 and PM10 pollution assessment underscores a lack of updated comprehensive studies.
